Here All Year: Stacy Hayden of Beadniks

The magic of the Island is enough to hold even the most hard to impress traveler spellbound.  For many, one summer here is enough enchantment to make you change plans and figure out a way to stay.  Stacy Hayden of Beadniks MV is one of those people who simply could not say "goodbye" to the Island, and jumped at the chance to call Martha's Vineyard her year-round home.

Over a decade later, Hayden is happy with her choice and now shares with her Island abode with her husband, her son Jack who attends the Charter School, and many pets. "The humans are outnumbered!" Hayden jokes, of their dog, three cats, two fish, and a lizard. Hayden and her family love to enjoy the natural wonders of the Island, spending time fishing, canoeing, hiking and doing lots of swimming.

Of course, the summer means lots of time behind the counter, helping customers create jewelry, but before the seasonal rush begins, Stacy Hayden took a moment of her time to chat with Patch about life here on MV.

Martha's Vineyard Patch: How long have you lived on-Island?

Hayden: I have lived here for almost 11 years now.  I came to the Island just to work for the summer and met my husband who is an Islander. I began working at Beadniks in May 2002, and have been here ever since.

Martha's Vineyard Patch: What are some of your favorite off-season pastimes?

Hayden:   I spend my time during the quiet winter months designing new jewelry pieces for the store and work on getting new and exciting beads for the next season. 

Martha's Vineyard Patch:  How do you know when the off-season has officially begun?

Hayden: The traffic stops, both car and foot, and we can all take a deep breath and relax.

Martha's Vineyard Patch: What do you personally find to be the most difficult thing about living here year-round?

Hayden: I think the most difficult thing is finding things to do in the off-season. There is plenty to do in the summer, but most Islanders are working so much then that it is hard to get out.  

Martha's Vineyard Patch: What's your favorite thing about staying here all year?

Hayden: The sense of community the Island has.  

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